The design was incorporated by the British into the Lee-Metford and Lee-Enfield rifles, thereby becoming one of the most widely used rifle designs of the 20th century. Remington's version of the Model 1879 saw only limited use by the U.S. Navy and the Model 1882 was tested by U.S. Army and issued on a very limited scale.[1] Ultimately, it was passed up in favor of the Krag-Jørgensen in 1892.

New Zealand purchased 500 for its militia in 1887. These were chambered in Remington's .43 Spanish (11.15x58mmR) caliber. These were quickly replaced after complaints about ammunition quality.[2]